“Worse yet, if the top cargo shifts”
With no propulsion, a shift would be fatal for sure. Reports said the ship had a 15 degree list and was taking on water. It could have easily capsized. Prayers up for the crew.
Taking or ordering a ship to sail into the path of a cat 4 hurricane is a criminally negligent action IMO.
From First Coast News:
“El Faro has 391 containers topside and 294 cars, trucks and trailers below deck. The Coast Guard said that cargo makes the listing problems worse at sea.”